Berlin’s Capital Boxing: A Crucible of Champions
Ewgeni schäfer, coach of Berlin’s Capital Boxing, commands the gym with an unwavering intensity. His gaze, sharp and focused, mirrors the rigorous training regimen he demands of his athletes. The gym, a blend of modern equipment and ancient grit, sits within a former BVG factory complex in the Wedding district, now part of Mitte.
A Legacy of Grit
Schäfer, a man whose past echoes the harsh realities of Siberian boxing schools, instills a similar resilience in his young charges. His training methods are demanding, pushing athletes to their limits. The atmosphere is one of focused determination, a stark contrast to the relaxed atmosphere of earlier sessions.
Intense Training Regimes
twice a week, a group of 20 aspiring boxers, aged 13 to 27, endure rigorous stress tests. These sessions, held every Tuesday at 6 p.m., are a testament to Schäfer’s unwavering commitment to excellence. The athletes, a mix of promising talent, are pushed to their physical and mental limits.
Shadow boxing, executed with precision and speed, is a cornerstone of the training. The emphasis is on technique, speed, and unwavering focus, all honed in the historic surroundings of the former BVG complex.
A Historic Training Ground
The gym’s location, nestled within the “Hof Mül” of the BVG complex, adds a layer of historical importance. This former factory and residential area, dating back to the 1920s, provides a unique backdrop for the athletes’ training. The echoes of past generations seem to resonate with the determination of the present.
The gym’s design reflects a blend of modern and traditional elements, with a flat ring, sandbags, and dedicated equipment areas. Four flags bearing the Berlin coat of arms add a touch of local pride to the space.
Schäfer’s unwavering dedication to his athletes,coupled with the historical significance of the training ground,creates a unique surroundings where champions are forged.
Capital City Boxing: A New Force in Berlin’s Community
Beads of sweat trace paths across young faces, mingling with the chill of a Berlin spring day. Inside a bustling training facility, the rhythmic thud of punches echoes against the walls. A dedicated coaching trio—Darko Vrataric, Eldin Lekusic, and Ewgeni Schäfer—guides their charges through rigorous drills. Outside, the city hums with life, oblivious to the intense focus within.
A Non-Profit Vision
eldin Lekusic, founder of ”Capital City Boxes,” conceived this project in the wake of the 2020 pandemic lockdowns. Recognizing the need for a safe space for young people, he established a non-profit boxing school, integrating it with a boxing club. This bold move, while risky, has proven triumphant, expanding from Steglitz to Charlottenburg and now Mitte. Lekusic credits the BVG board for their support in securing a permanent training space.
A Growing Community
The club’s popularity is evident. Two young men, fresh from Ju-Jitsu, seek to learn the art of boxing, drawn by the gym’s reputation. This reflects a broader appeal, as Lekusic emphasizes the club’s role as a vital resource for at-risk youth. Coaches step in where parents, teachers, and social workers falter, offering support that extends beyond the ring.
A poignant example highlights this commitment: Abdul,facing a potential injury,receives immediate support from Lekusic,ensuring he receives necessary medical attention. This underscores the club’s dedication to holistic well-being.
A coaching trio that still has a lot to do: Darko Vrataric, Eldin Lekusic, Ewgeni Schäfer (from left)
A legacy of Skill
Ewgeni Schäfer, a seasoned trainer, energizes the session.He directs the young boxers through intense combinations, demanding precision and focus. The atmosphere is one of controlled intensity, with clear instructions and a firm but fair approach. The referee’s signal marks the end of each round, ensuring a structured and disciplined environment.
Lekusic introduces another key figure: Darko Vrataric,a 71-year-old veteran boxer with a rich history in West Berlin. His experience adds a layer of wisdom and tradition to the club, offering a unique perspective to the younger generation.
Berlin’s Boxing Brigade: A Look at the Capital City’s Rising Stars
A crisp morning in Spandau, Germany, finds a seasoned coach, preparing his young charges for a day of intense competition. The Siemens plant serves as a backdrop to the rigorous training regimen, a prelude to the evening’s Bundesliga and city fights at the Spandau Boxclub. Coach Schäfer, a veteran of the sport as 1986, has guided countless athletes, including a notable victory for his compatriot Željko Mavrović in the 1998 WBC World Cup heavyweight title match against Lennox Lewis in Uncasville, Connecticut.
A Future of Champions?
While the path to such heights remains long for some, like 18-year-old Rihano Kwiek, significant progress is evident. Kwiek, a promising welterweight, recently secured a third-place finish at the 2024 German U19 Championships in Königsbrunn, Bavaria, in the up to 67-kilogram division. This accomplishment, however, is just a stepping stone. Kwiek, known for his explosive punching style, aspires to much more, driven by a relentless determination.Another standout is 16-year-old Erik Gharssajan, a speedy-witted fighter who impresses with his fluid movements and precise technique. While Gharssajan still needs to refine his close-range skills, his ambition mirrors Kwiek’s, aiming for Olympic gold.
Schäfer’s Vision: Discipline and Drive
coach Schäfer, a man of unwavering focus, guides his athletes through the final stages of their training. His instructions are precise, his guidance unwavering. “Continue down, breast towards the knee, I will help,” he commands, ensuring every detail is addressed. The training session culminates in a group photo, a moment of shared accomplishment. “We are world champions in this,” Schäfer declares, a hint of playful pride in his voice, eliciting laughter from the fatigued but determined group of “capital city boxers.”
Key Takeaways:
- coach Schäfer’s extensive experience, including guiding Željko Mavrović to a WBC title.
- Rihano Kwiek’s extraordinary third-place finish at the German U19 Championships.
- Erik Gharssajan’s promising talent and Olympic aspirations.
- Schäfer’s dedication to meticulous training and fostering a strong team spirit.
Exclusive Interview: Eldin Lekusic Debates Berlin Boxing’s Rise – Insights & Controversies!
Guest: Eldin lekusic, Founder of Capital City Boxing
Context: The article details the growth of Capital City Boxing, a non-profit boxing school in Berlin, and its impact on at-risk youth. The emergence of promising young boxers like Rihano Kwiek and Erik Gharssajan is highlighted, along wiht the contributions of experienced coaches like Ewgeni Schäfer and Darko Vrataric. Recent German U19 Championship results provide a backdrop for the discussion.
Background: Eldin Lekusic, a passionate boxing enthusiast, founded Capital City Boxing in the wake of the 2020 pandemic lockdowns. Recognizing the lack of safe spaces for youth, he transformed his boxing club into a non-profit institution, expanding its reach from Steglitz to Charlottenburg and now Mitte. His dedication to providing holistic support, including medical attention when necessary, is evident. He’s gained recognition for successfully securing long-term training space with BVG support.
Interviewer: Welcome, eldin. Your project presents a unique model integrating boxing with social support. What inspired this approach?
Lekusic: The pandemic highlighted the vulnerable position of manny young people, especially those lacking access to positive influences. Boxing, with its clear structure and emphasis on discipline, offers a pathway to growth. however, it’s critical to recognize that the ring is more than just a physical space – it’s a place for personal development, and we strive to foster physical and mental well-being within the community.
Interviewer: You’ve expanded your reach considerably. How do you maintain that balance between high-level training and community engagement?
Lekusic: It’s essential to be adaptable. We try to maintain a flexible atmosphere, balancing the intense training demands of competition with the supportive environment needed for young people. We’re not just about wins and losses; we’re about helping young people develop valuable life skills, like patience, discipline and self-control.
Interviewer: Can you elaborate on how, such as, a situation like Abdul’s potential injury illustrates Capital City Boxing’s unique approach?
Lekusic: Abdul’s case is a prime illustration. We recognize that physical well-being is paramount. Fortunately, our coaches and support staff stepped up to ensure he received immediate medical attention. This holistic approach underscores our commitment to providing more than just boxing training; we’re invested in the overall health and well-being of every member.
Interviewer: Ewgeni Schäfer’s background as a seasoned coach is noteworthy.How does his experience add value to the training program?
Lekusic: Schäfer’s experience is invaluable. He brings a deep understanding of athletic demands and mental fortitude that goes beyond technical boxing skills. He offers a unique blend of conventional values and contemporary training strategies—an significant combination.This experience is vital for guiding not just technical proficiency, but equally important emotional intelligence.
Interviewer: Many aspiring boxers aspire to the Olympian level. How realistic are these goals given the broader societal context?
Lekusic: While we are very proud of the achievements and potential of Rihano Kwiek and Erik Gharssajan, the road to the Olympics remains challenging for even the most gifted athletes. We place a lot of emphasis on building a robust foundation – fostering basic skills, essential fitness, and instilling mental strength. The Olympic path is a highly selective process and requires incredible dedication beyond the training space.
Interviewer: Coach Schäfer’s involvement with Željko Mavrović and his WBC title victory is a powerful example. Does this history instill motivation amongst the young boxers?
Lekusic: Absolutely. Stories like Željko Mavrović’s WBC title inspire young people. They show that with dedication, skill, and the right support structure, anything is achievable. This history motivates our young athletes not just with the possibility of awards but also the spirit of hard work and dedication. They understand that exceptional achievement requires more than just talent – it demands a true commitment.
Interviewer: Does the location of the facility in Spandau close to the Siemens plant influence the focus on athleticism and determination required for success in professional sports?
Lekusic: The location,environment,and the connection to the athletic demands of professional sports in the region absolutely play a key role. The proximity to Siemens provides our students with an understanding of the relentless pursuit of excellence in a highly competitive environment. It shapes their vision of performance beyond the ring.
Interviewer: Any final thoughts on the current state of boxing in Berlin, and the future of capital City Boxing?
Lekusic: Berlin boasts an exceptional talent pool. Capital City Boxing is committed to providing a safe, nurturing, and challenging environment. This combined with dedicated coaching and support gives us hope for promising careers in boxing for our youth.It’s a powerful blend of technical skill development with a strong focus on social development.
Reader Engagement: do you agree with Eldin Lekusic on this issue? Share your thoughts in the comments!
